Former Hamden Police Chief, Councilman Dies At 69

HAMDEN, CT — Former Hamden Police Chief and Legislative Councilman Jack Kennelly died at his Florida home on May 19. He was 69. Kennelly served on the Legislative Council from 2001-2005 and again from 2007-2017, most recently serving as the council president pro-tempore. He previously served as acting council president in 2015. Kennelly also served as acting Public Works director in 2010.

However, the most widely recognized portion of his career was with the Hamden Police Department, where Kennelly enjoyed a storied career that lasted more than 35 years, culminating with his service as police chief from 2005 to 2006.

“It was with great sadness and shock that I learned of Chief Kennelly’s passing,” Hamden Police Chief Thomas Wydra said in a statement. “Jack had a long, distinguished and successful career at the Hamden Police Department that may only be rivaled by his record of achievement over the last decade while serving as a member of the Legislative Council. His service to Hamden is arguably unsurpassed. I will always be grateful to him for his support and impact on my career.”

Kennelly was a 1965 graduate of Hamden High School and a life-long resident. He went on to pursue a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of New Haven before entering law enforcement in Hamden.

Kennelly served with the Hamden Police Department for more than 35 years, starting his law enforcement career in November of 1970 with the rank of patrolman. Kennelly steadily rose through the ranks, attaining the rank of detective in 1976, sergeant in 1984, inspector in 1993, and deputy chief in 2002.

Over the course of his career, Kennelly served Hamden’s residents as a member of the Investigative Services Division, Street Narcotics Task Force, and Community Street Crime Unit – with a primary focus on drug related investigations.

Throughout his storied career, Kennelly received more than 50 unique commendations and awards for his service, valorous actions, and commitment to duty.

In addition to his accomplishments in law enforcement, Kennelly was a beloved member of the Hamden community. After retiring from the Hamden Police Department in 2006, Kennelly was once again elected to serve on Hamden’s Legislative Council.

“Jack was a force of nature in police service, Hamden government, public service, in politics and with his family,” Hamden Mayor Curt Balzano Leng said. “His dedication to serving the public was enormous. Personally, I will very much miss our talks about this town -- which always demonstrated a supreme level of dedication, outstanding insight, undeniable wit, character, history, and exceptional public service.

“I encourage all residents and friends who may have known Jack, and even those who did not, to take a moment and reflect on the significant achievements and contributions of Mr. Kennelly’s life. He will not be forgotten.”

While on the council, Kennelly was influential in ensuring that Hamden’s emergency protective services personnel – both Police and Fire – continued to receive the training, community support, and financial assistance needed to maintain and improve the high-quality emergency operations Hamden’s residents depend on.

Kennelly was also a major contributor and proponent of the construction of the new Police Department Headquarters. His love for Hamden, for his officers, and for his friends and family were unparalleled and he will be sorely missed by all, officials said in a news release.

“I am deeply distressed that my good friend Jack Kennelly has passed,” Hamden Legislative Council President James Pascarella said. “Hamden will miss his historic insight, loyalty, and commitment. I will miss him terribly. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and the many people who Jack has touched and benefited.”

Hamden will fly its flags at half-mast as a celebration of Kennelly’s life, career, and legacy.

Patch file photo